Kinder spelen / Jeux d'enfans 1833 - 1900

Glenisson & Zonen’s print titled Kinder spelen / Jeux d'enfans depicts children engaged in various activities. The image provides a glimpse into childhood during the time it was made, reflecting social norms and expectations. The focus on domestic activities such as caring for animals, spinning wool, or helping at the table draws attention to the gendered expectations placed on young girls, who were often expected to contribute to household labor from a young age. The playful scenes, such as children dancing in a circle or jumping rope, offer a contrast to the more labor-intensive tasks, highlighting the complex realities of childhood where play and work were intertwined. This print invites us to consider the roles assigned to children in different historical contexts, prompting reflections on the ways in which childhood experiences are shaped by cultural norms and societal expectations. These simple childhoods reflect a range of emotions, from joy and companionship to the weight of early responsibilities.